Burglary Defense Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Legal Options?
A burglary charge in Henrico County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients at the Henrico County General District Court. A burglary defense lawyer Henrico County from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, including intent and unlawful entry. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is specific and requires the prosecution to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Henrico County focuses on these elements, such as whether the entry was truly at night or if the intent to commit another crime existed at the time of entry. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed statutory knowledge to build defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Henrico County General District Court website.
Defending a Burglary Charge in Henrico County Court
The key procedural fact in Henrico County is that all felony charges, including burglary, begin with a preliminary hearing in the Henrico County General District Court. This hearing determines if there is probable cause to send the case to the Henrico County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors must establish evidence of unlawful entry and specific criminal intent. A burglary charge defense lawyer Henrico County scrutinizes police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence for weaknesses in this link.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or summons.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all prosecution evidence.
- Prepare a defense strategy for the preliminary hearing in General District Court.
- If the case proceeds, engage in pre-trial motions and negotiations in Circuit Court.
- Prepare for a jury trial if a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Henrico County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 years to life in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty obtaining employment/housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of local courts and prosecution tactics.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Documented Case Results
Our firm has 8 documented criminal case results in Henrico County. These include cases where charges were dismissed or reduced. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges like reckless driving and selling alcohol to an unauthorized person in Henrico General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our managing attorney, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law bring a high level of authority to our defense strategies.
Contact Our Henrico County Burglary Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Henrico County. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. If you need a burglary defense lawyer near Henrico County or the Short Pump area, we can help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve the communities of Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) requires entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering (Va. Code § 18.2-91) involves entering a building to commit a misdemeanor. The penalties for burglary are more severe.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Henrico County may negotiate to reduce the charge to a lesser felony or misdemeanor like trespassing or unlawful entry if the evidence for intent or nighttime entry is weak. This often involves pre-trial negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime, mistaken identity, lawful right to enter the property, and challenging the legality of the police investigation or evidence collection. An attorney will analyze all facts to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary preliminary hearing?
Yes. The preliminary hearing is a critical stage where the prosecution must show probable cause. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Henrico County can cross-examine witnesses, challenge evidence, and potentially get the felony charge dismissed before it even goes to Circuit Court.
What happens at a burglary arraignment in Henrico County?
At arraignment in Henrico County General District Court, you are formally advised of the burglary charge and your rights. You will enter a plea of not guilty. The judge will address bond conditions and set a date for your preliminary hearing. Having an attorney present is crucial.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Henrico County DUI defense lawyers.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.